Barriers and Recommendations
Based on my own experience and observations many barriers to participation exist. They can be classified as: practical (time, childcare, access to facilities) personal- psychosocial (body/image and confidence; habit, level of interest) financial (costs of membership, equipment, classes) and institutional (lack of mentors, role models, lack of females in leadership roles). Overcoming such barriers and stimulating interest in, knowledge of and hence demand for sport and healthy lifestyles will require an understanding of the varied drivers (that is, the triggers) that motivate people to participate. They can be grouped into the 5’Fs: 1) Fun & Feel-good Factor, 2) Fitness, 3) Friendship, 4) Fundraising & 5) the Fight (eg the competition).
Taking the barriers and triggers into consideration, the table below offers up some suggestions for increasing participation among women and girls at the grassroots level. Of course, this list is not exhaustive and hopefully the dialogue within the APPG, and other forums will catalyse further ideas, thoughts and
suggestions.
The links below list the factors and barriers and specific recommendations:
